Just a Stupid Kid: Low Self Esteem and Alcoholism book by John Candito

Just a Stupid Kid: Low Self-Esteem and Alcoholism is a non-fiction work in which the author, John Candito, explores the deep connection between low self-esteem and substance abuse, especially alcoholism. Drawing from his own experience as a recovered alcoholic, Candito argues that feelings of inferiority, worthlessness, and being judged by others (which he suggests might be better described as “Other People’s Opinion Awareness” or OPOA) are at the core of why many people turn to alcohol and drugs. He discusses how these feelings develop, how they shape behaviour, and how they can lead to addiction — suggesting that low self-esteem is the disease, and alcohol/drugs are the symptoms people use to cope with internal distress.